Figure, c. 1900, 20-1/4 x 9-1/2 x 9-3/8 in. ( x x cm), Wood, Democratic Republic of the Congo, 19th-20th century, Luba artists most frequently carved female figures. Women held a strong position in Luba society and performed a variety of social, spiritual and political roles. They were associated with sacred ceremonies and the ancestors and were believed to have protective and rejuvenative power. This sculpture, called a kabila or mboko, represents a kneeling woman with a vessel in her lap. Her high status is indicated by her elaborate coiffure and body scarification.

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Size: 4383px × 4567px
Location:
Photo credit: © Penta Springs / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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